Ireland’s use of cocaine is among the highest in Europe, new findings by the Health Research Board has confirmed. 

The number of psychiatric hospitalisations due to the drug have risen from 0.24 per 100,000 in 2000 to 2.4 in 2022 - a tenfold increase in 20 years. 

The number of cocaine-related deaths have also risen 1,831%; in 2000, there were 0.29 deaths per 100,000. 

However, by 2020, the figure had increased to 5.6 per 100,000. 

On The Pat Kenny Show, addiction specialist Dr Garrett McGovern described the figures in the report as “eyewatering”. 

“I think the one that stuck out is the 62 fold increase in people presenting for treatment,” he said. 

“This is a very, very big problem and I don’t think we have enough treatment to go around really, to be quite honest with you. 

“We are seeing more and more of it, certainly on the ground, and that’s the experience of my colleagues.” 

A Garda drug seizure. Picture by: An Garda Síochána.

Dr McGovern continued that while many users think they can use the drug without issue, the numbers suggest that a significant number of people have developed serious issues. 

“You’re talking about cocaine related psychiatric conditions and discharges from hospital,” he explained. 

“You’re talking about a 17 fold [increase]; these are huge, huge problems. 

“It’s crude to say that a lot of people will take cocaine and maybe will not end up in an emergency department. 

“The problem with cocaine is, it’s illicit - so, you’re never quite sure what you’re taking.”

The MV Matthew, whose crew were found guilty of attempting to smuggle cocaine into Ireland. Picture by: David Creedon / Alamy Stock Photo.

Dr McGovern added that while Gardaí do their best to disrupt drug trafficking, huge demand for cocaine means a lucrative continues to arrive on our shores. 

“The problem is, for every [shipment of cocaine] that is getting stopped, there’s a load of others getting through,” he said. 

“Sometimes the cynical part of me thinks maybe some of these seizures, some of them are offered up by dealers for police to take their eye off the ball elsewhere. 

“Cocaine is a very popular drug, for sure.” 

Some have suggested that Gardaí targeting more middle class could reduce demand, Dr McGovern believes it would never extinguish it entirely. 

“One way or another, drugs will find their way onto the street,” he lamented. 

“It’s popular you see.” 

Anyone struggling with drug addiction can contact the HSE’s confidential freephone helpline on 1800 459 459 from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 5.30 pm.

Main image: A cocaine user. Picture by: Alamy.com.